RECOMMENDED FOR YOU:

Some of my most memorable, amazing and peaceful trips with my family have revolved around hiking. Taking a walk together across challenging (or even not-so-challenging) terrain is such a great way to reconnect with your family while appreciating and enjoying nature together. In fact, it’s one of our favorite eco-friendly summer activities for kids and families. You can use your hiking time as a teachable moment — children will gain a love for the Earth and a desire to save our environment. And at the same time, you can cherish the memories of time spent together as a family, memories that will last a lifetime. Before you hit the trails, check out our top four ways to ensure every eco-friendly family hiking adventure is one to remember.

1. Pick a Hike

If this will be your first hiking adventure with the little ones, choose a hike that is easy and fun for everyone in your family. If your family is full of experienced hikers, choose a hike that will be enjoyable and challenging. However, be sure to make your hike an appropriate challenge for everyone — you don’t want to spend the entire day listening to whining or crying. And if you’re bringing your baby in an infant carrier, remember you may get worn out more quickly carrying the extra weight. The best hikes to take with little ones in tow are destination hikes. Destination hikes have a surprise at the end, whether it’s a waterfall, lake or beaver pond, it will get your family excited to start the journey knowing they’ll see a beautiful reward at the end.